Extra food after Christmas can go further with 17 easy leftover dish ideas that fit just about any day. Hosting family or relaxing solo, everyone appreciates meals that don’t require much effort. Ideas like these save time while helping clear out what’s left from holiday dinners. Getting through the week feels lighter when you have ways to make something simple from what’s on hand.
Ham and Potato Soup
After a big holiday meal, nothing feels more comforting than a hot bowl of this Ham and Potato Soup on a chilly night. Creamy broth blends with hearty bites for a simple dinner that comes together without stress. I find people always go back for seconds. Warmth fills the kitchen every time a pot is on the stove.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Soup
Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole
Transforming holiday extras into something special, this Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole puts all the classic flavors in one dish. Baked to golden perfection, it makes leftovers feel new and exciting again. I like bringing this out for family dinner since it uses up everything in the fridge. Even picky eaters ask for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole
Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
Flaky layers and a cheesy center make these Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls a snack everyone asks for after celebrations wind down. Soft, buttery bites disappear as soon as the tray hits the table. I often make an extra batch just in case. These rolls are perfect for breakfast or a quick afternoon bite.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Crescent Rolls
Turkey Bolognese
Pasta night gets a post-holiday twist with this Turkey Bolognese on the menu. Robust flavors simmer together to make a sauce that hugs every noodle. I whip up a double pot for cozy evenings when everyone’s hungry. This recipe is proof that simple leftovers can turn into something special.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Bolognese
Savory Turkey Sliders
Bite-sized treats like these Savory Turkey Sliders bring cheer to lunch or dinner when the holidays are over. Juicy layers on soft buns keep everyone coming back for more. I like to offer these during game nights, where they never last long. Just add a few pickles or sauce and you have leftovers worth sharing.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Sliders
Flaky Turkey Pot Pie
Layers of golden crust and a creamy filling make this Flaky Turkey Pot Pie a winter classic for leftover fans. Rich, cozy bites chase away any chill as soon as they’re served. I love bringing this to the table when snowflakes are falling outside. It’s the best way to wrap up the festive season.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Turkey Pot Pie
Ham and Cheese Quiche
Brunch plans get easier with this Ham and Cheese Quiche that uses leftovers in a creative way. Light eggs and flavorful cheese mix beautifully for a crowd-pleasing slice. I serve it warm or cold, depending on how busy things get. This dish makes mornings much more delicious after Christmas.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Quiche
Hearty Turkey Chili
Winter dinners get a flavor boost with this Hearty Turkey Chili on chilly nights. Thick, rich bowls steam on the table, making everyone feel warmer and full. I enjoy seeing how fast the pot empties when friends visit. Easy-to-make comfort food is just what the season demands.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili
Ham and Split Pea Soup
Soup season reaches new heights once this Ham and Split Pea Soup fills the air with savory goodness. Earthy flavors mingle for a classic bowl of comfort, perfect for using every bit of leftover ham. I like serving it to guests who appreciate a no-fuss meal. Leftovers taste even better reheated the next day.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Split Pea Soup
Comforting Turkey Casserole
Holiday memories linger with each bite of this Comforting Turkey Casserole as it turns leftovers into a brand-new experience. Creamy and filling, it’s always the first dish to vanish at the table. I tend to pop this in the oven when I’m not sure what else to make. A cozy crowd-pleaser never falls out of style.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Holiday flavors combo up in these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls perfect for snacking or as a dinner side. Each ball is crisp on the outside and filled with a festive medley within. I like serving them with a quick gravy or sauce. People are always impressed by the creative take on leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls
Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders
Melty cheese and bite-sized sandwiches make these Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders an instant hit when the fridge needs clearing. Warm, hearty, and just right for sharing, they disappear fast. I set them out for lunch and watch them go one after another. No one complains about leftovers with a recipe this fun.
Get the Recipe: Melty Ham and Cheese Sliders
Crunchy Taco Salad Cups
Bringing big flavor in every crunch, these Crunchy Taco Salad Cups uses odds and ends without any fuss. Layers of crisp greens and tasty toppings make each cup a party on its own. I use whatever is leftover from the holiday table to keep things fresh. Anyone looking for lighter bites loves these cups.
Get the Recipe: Crunchy Taco Salad Cups
Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Air fryers make magic with these Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes and Ham that bubbles to the top with comforting flavor. Creamy potatoes and bits of ham create a dish that’s hard to walk away from. I reach for this recipe on busy nights after Christmas. It’s so simple, you’ll wonder why you waited to try it.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Festive moments continue with these Turkey Cranberry Sliders that stack sweet, savory flavors in each bite. Soft buns and tangy sauce create something guests chat about until the last slider is gone. I make these for after-holiday lunches, where everyone always wants the leftovers. Bite-sized treats mean nothing goes to waste.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Cranberry Sliders
Comforting Turkey Soup
Cold winter afternoons beg for something soothing, and this Comforting Turkey Soup hits the spot. Gentle broth and hearty bits make each spoonful cozy and inviting. I whip up a pot for easy lunches or quiet evenings. You’ll be glad you used every leftover scrap.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Soup
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
Generous flavor and cozy warmth define this Hearty Ham and Bean Soup as beans and smoky ham simmer together. Each bowl delivers comfort, stretching leftovers into a filling meal. I heat up leftovers for lunch, loving how they get even better. There’s something extra inviting about a soup that truly uses it all.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
